Health - Personal safety

Personal Safety

Fear of crime and physical attack is something that goes through everybody’s mind from time to time. The good news is there are steps that you can take to lower the risks.

General safety tips

  • Always let someone know where you are when you are away from home, especially if your plans change - it takes just one quick call.
  • Always trust your instincts - if you have a 'funny feeling' about someone or something, don't ignore it, act on it.
  • Remember drugs and alcohol dull your reflexes and reduce your awareness of danger.
  • If a problem arises, try to get away from the situation. Only fight if you really have to. Always give away your bag, purse or wallet rather than fighting - they can be replaced - you can't.

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Safety when walking

  • Avoid danger spots like quiet, poorly lit alleyways, subways or deserted car parks.
  • Walk down the middle of the pavement if the street is deserted.
  • Whenever possible, walk with a friend or stay with a group of people.
  • Walk facing on-coming traffic to avoid curb-crawlers
  • Be aware of your surroundings - wearing headphones will interfere with this.
  • If you think you are being followed or feel threatened, get away from the situation as soon as possible and contact the police or phone home.
  • If a vehicle pulls up next to you, turn and walk in the opposite direction and make for a public place.

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Riding in a bus or train

  • Always wait for a bus in a well lit place, in view of any security cameras and near other people if possible.
  • Try to sit near the driver or guard.
  • Have your pass, ticket or correct change in your hand so that your wallet/purse is out of sight.
  • If you feel threatened, try and get away from the situation. Either move seat, or get off at the next stop.
  • Make as much noise as possible to attract the driver or guard's attention.
  • In an emergency, locate and sound the alarm or use the telephone help points on train platforms.

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Taking a taxi

  • Always try to share a cab with a friend.
  • Try to take 'Black Cabs' or registered taxis which are licensed by the police and have identity numbers.
  • Do not hail a mini-cab on the street. Instead, always carry the number of a taxi company known by you.
  • When booking a cab by phone, ask for the driver's name, make and colour of car. When the cab arrives, ask the driver his name and firm and ask what name he is expecting to collect.
  • If you are calling from a public place, try not to let people overhear your name and address - anyone could pretend to be your cab.
  • Always sit in the back and if you chat to the driver, do not give out personal details.
  • Remember to trust your instincts - if you do not feel comfortable with the situation firmly ask the driver to stop in a public place, get out and phone home or the police.

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Personal safety abroad

Follow all the same personal safety guidelines that you would at home. Also pay attention to any cultural differences and different laws in the country you are travelling in. See our travel abroad section for more hints on safety abroad.

Online safety

  • Never give personal information when chatting online (name, address, telephone/mobile number, email address, school, picture), even if people ask for it. Use a nickname.
  • Remember people may not be who they say they are even if you have been talking to them for ages or they seem really friendly.
  • Meeting up with an online friend can be dangerous. If you ever do you must tell your parent or carer and take them with you – and meet in a public place in daytime.
  • If things get unpleasant, log off.
  • Tell your parent or carer if someone or something makes you feel uncomfortable or worried when you are chatting or surfing.
  • Never open an email attachment from someone you don't know.

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Victims of crime

If you are the victim of a crime you may have a whole range of feelings from fear to anger, stress, anxiety and even guilt. Whatever your situation – there are organisations and people who can help you to get through it.

www.victimsupport.org offers free and confidential support and information to help people deal with their experience.

Victim Support Helpline
Free and confidential help and advice for anyone affected by crime 0845 30 30 900

Coalville & District Victim Support Service
01530 830 708

Leicester Victim Support Service
0116 253 0101

South Leicestershire Victim Support Service
01858 431 390

Rutland & Melton Victim Support Service
01664 411 700

West Leicestershire Victim Support Service
01455 233 544

Charnwood Victim Support Service
01509 268545

Domestic Violence and Abuse

See our section on relationships for help and advice about domestic violence or abuse

Last Updated: 26-Jun-2007

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